HyaciGuard: Restoring Water Ecosystem Innovatively

PROJECT IMPACT

$2131.35

IEEE Funding

74300

Estimated Impact

4

Students

0

Volunteers

Location: India
PROJECT LAUNCHED: February 2024
PROJECT LEADS:

Mr. RAKESH R

Eichhornia crassipes, or water hyacinth, is an invasive aquatic weed that has created an issue in bodies of water in India, particularly Korattur Lake in Tamil Nadu. Water hyacinth creates dense and impenetrable mats on the surface of the water, blocking sun and oxygen, which is a prime breeding ground for mosquitos. With this rise in mosquito population comes a rise in mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue and malaria. This is a public and environmental health issue and can impact the quality of life of all of those who live near water hyacinth-infested waters.

To combat this issue, a group of students from the Madras Section of the Sri Sai Ram Engineering College Student Branch teamed up with Little For Change to create HyaciGuard, an automated aquatic weed remover.

HyaciGuard is a watercraft that uses a system of pullers that uproot the water hyacinth, place it on a conveyor belt, and dispose of it in a collection bin.  It has navigation sensors that help it effectively move throughout bodies of water. It was created with the knowledge that weeds might interfere with such sensors and have plans to work around that. The device is equipped with camera sensors that detect water hyacinth, pulling it from the water. This is a more environmentally conscious way of pest removal than harsh chemicals that may otherwise be used.

The team has also considered uses for the disposed water hyacinth when the process is complete. Among those suggestions are hyacinth fertilizers, perfumes, and biogas, all of which would be sustainable uses of the waste.  By removing these plants from the water, sunlight can reach the lakes again, lowering the mosquito population and protecting those that live in surrounding areas.

This project was made possible by a $2,131.35 grant from EPICS in IEEE.

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